DO YOU NEED an expert investigator ? Investigative assistance ?
Here is a little practical advice for dealing with an impairment :
1 ) Failing to deal with an impairment individually and as a firm has consequences . Should the legal interests of clients be adversely affected as a result , malpractice claims and disciplinary complaints may not be far behind . In light of this , my best advice is to do all you can to create an environment that seeks to prevent such a thing from ever happening . If not already in place , a firm culture that prioritizes well-being would be a great place to start .
DO YOU NEED an expert investigator ? Investigative assistance ?
2 ) In order for an individual to responsibly address an impairment , recognize that some type of temporary or permanent transition may need to take place . As a firm , do everything you can to identify and work through the transition issues together . This is a time when the efforts of a team can make a huge difference for all involved . Issues to consider might include workload , file review , schedule changes , role changes , file handoffs , client contact , client introductions , conditions of remaining with the firm , conditions of returning to the firm after an extended absence , capturing any intellectual capital before the opportunity is lost , impact on the impaired attorney ’ s income , necessary workplace accommodations , and the list goes on . A solo practitioner should work with a trusted colleague on many of these same issues .
3 ) Should you ever find yourself having to accept the reality that you have an impairment , don ’ t try to go it alone . Reach out to and rely upon your personal support systems . Allow spouses , friends , family members , colleagues , and the like to be there for you . Be open to accepting their support , respect , and care . Your journey will be all the better for it .
Any parting words of wisdom ?
A misconception that needlessly creates risk by preventing someone from prioritizing their health is a misconception that must be dispelled . My hope is by correcting the record , this will lead to different and better choices . Individuals who might have been reluctant to seek treatment may feel more inclined to do so . Firms that have been unwilling or unable to acknowledge that their lawyers and staff do struggle with serious problems at times may now be more open to taking both proactive and responsive actions .
Lawyers and firms have wide latitude in how impairment can be addressed . Just know it starts with 1 ) recognizing impairments are common and 2 ) understanding no one should have to work through the challenges of personal impairment alone .
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FRANCIS W . GASPER , founder of Gasper Investigations , LLC is an award winning retired FBI Agent , attorney and licensed private investigator located in North Dakota , who specializes in working with attorneys to prepare and engage in complex litigation ; clients include corporations and banks addressing fraud , employee malfeasance as well as background reviews .
HIGHLY SKILLED AT CONDUCTING :
• Comprehensive research
• Reviewing large amounts of financial records and data
• Identifying , locating , and interviewing witnesses
• Gathering and summarizing admissible documentary evidence
• Asset searches
CONTACT :
Francis W . Gasper Gasperinvestigations . com frank @ gasperinvestigations . com ( 701 ) 204-1798 or ( 914 ) 584-2225
Private Investigator ND # 588 , MN # 2321 , IL # 115002658 , NY # 1100221129 , Member of NY Bar
SUMMER 2024 19